PeterA
Well-known member
I have no inclination to disrespect anyone's 'choice' of camera Jono - I will leave it there regarding the implications of my definition of attitude towards cameras by the collective.Ah Peter . . . if you want to argue the benefits of an SLR viewfinder over an EVF I can argue back . . . but if you're arguing about a rangefinder, then I don't have a word to say! Seeing around the image is so important, and provides so much more information.
Still, although the NEX7 is MY current toy - I think it's a bit patronising to refer to it as a toy - it's certainly capable of producing great images.
but with respect to the original post . . . I really can see the mirror SLR being replace by the EVF over the next few years . . . but not the optical rangefinder.
One of the things which really impresses me about the Fuji X1-pro (another toy) is that they've realised the truth of the OVF and provided two different settings with proper framelines. I've always felt it would be nice if Leica produced a three setting RF window - but I suspect it's too difficult from a technical point of view.
Regarding SLR viewfinders - I respectfully suggest that you look through a Mamiya RZ or an Hy6 or Hasselblad or an S2 viewfinder before suggesting that the EVF from Sony or anyone else is better!
I cant speak about a Nex7 - as I have only bought a Nex5N and Sony77 ( or is it a 75?) I cant remember ...
both these viewfinders are interesting and revolutionary - but both can't compare to My Nikon D3 viewfinder or my R9 viewfinder..
I think we agree on the superiority of the rangefinder for compositonal purposes - and the Xpan is top of the pops for me there.
The only caveat - again though I say - that focus is not a high priority for me relative to framing. If we are talking focus ease - I think that these Sony cameras are as good as anything from rangefinder or 35mm land in auto mode - and certainly better than anything in automode from MF land.
I am spoilt for choice I guess - but these days I prefer less 'stuff' and am finding that i use my Alpa or artec for most shooting and auto nothing.
* Yes IF EVF was as large as I get from MF viewfinders - I think it would kill off mirror systems- bring it on!
Pete